What does the 48V mild hybrid system in the Envision Plus mean?
3 Answers
The mainstream 48V mild hybrid system consists of core components including a 48V battery, a 48V starter motor/generator, a 48V/12V (DC/DC) voltage inverter, and corresponding control modules. The 48V system is responsible for powering components such as the electric power steering, air conditioning system, parking heater, and various electric-assisted pumps. The functions of the 48V mild hybrid system are: 1. Energy recovery: The 48V voltage meets the requirements for lithium batteries to quickly achieve energy recovery, and the recovered energy can be used for auxiliary driving, reducing engine load and thereby lowering fuel consumption and emissions. 2. Coordinated engine operation: During startup and acceleration, the motor can intervene to work in coordination with the engine, improving power while also reducing fuel consumption, allowing for a reduction in engine displacement. Although the motor can drive the vehicle independently, when the battery is sufficiently charged, the motor can maintain cruising speed, and the engine will shut down to save fuel. 3. Retention of the 48V/12V voltage inverter: Additionally, the system retains a 48V/12V voltage inverter, allowing some electronic devices with power demands in the vehicle to continue using 12V DC power, reducing costs. High-power equipment such as the air conditioning compressor and starter motor use 48V voltage, enabling the engine to participate in work to the greatest extent possible while in a parked state.
The Buick Enclave Plus's 48V mild hybrid system essentially adds a small assistant to the traditional engine. It utilizes a 48V battery and a small electric motor to assist the engine during startup or acceleration, reducing the engine's workload for smoother and quicker starts. When braking, the system recovers deceleration energy, converting it into electricity stored in the battery for reuse. This significantly improves fuel efficiency, typically saving around 10% in fuel consumption. It also operates much more quietly, making for a smoother and quieter ride. Technically, it involves some electronic control modules, but overall, it's reliable and requires similar maintenance to conventional vehicles—just regular battery checks. This design enhances both performance and environmental friendliness, making it a smarter choice than traditional gasoline-only vehicles and definitely worth learning about.
As a daily driver of the Enclave Plus, the 48V mild hybrid system has made my driving experience absolutely fantastic. The startup is whisper-quiet, eliminating engine roar—perfect for early mornings without disturbing anyone. Acceleration response is brisk, like an electric boost giving you a push, and it doesn’t struggle on inclines. Energy recovery during braking is smooth, noticeably cutting fuel consumption—saving 1-2 liters per 100km in city driving, which is both economical and hassle-free. The dashboard clearly displays energy flow with intuitive controls. After over a year of ownership, engine wear is reduced, and the overall quiet, comfortable ride is eco-friendly—truly a city commuting gem. Highly recommend giving it a try.